The Diocesan Young Adults group provides entertainment at the conference, which drew nearly 600 young adults. MARY ANN HAINES | FOR THE CATHOLIC HERALD

Arlington Bishop Michael F. Burbidge answers a question during the Regional Congress of Young Adults at Herndon Middle School in Herndon Oct. 27. MARY ANN HAINES | FOR THE CATHOLIC HERALD

Nearly 600 young adults gathered for the
Regional Congress of Young Adults Oct. 28 at Herndon Middle School in Herndon. Organized
by the diocesan Spanish Apostolate with the support of the Young Adult
Charismatic Renewal and other diocesan groups, the event included prayer, reflections,
testimonies, music, lunch and a holy hour.

The main objective was to continue
supporting the efforts that young adults are making in their diocesan parishes
and prayer groups.

The immigrant Hispanic community is
going through a difficult time with the current immigration situation. Today
among families, especially among young adults, there is a lot of fear,
frustration and an uncertainty about the future.

That's why at this gathering I
encouraged the young dreamers who are fighting for the government to approve
the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program. Also, it was an
opportunity to prepare to celebrate the V Encuentro de Pastoral Hispano as “missionary
disciples and witnesses of God's love.”

There were several opportunities to
encourage the young adults to get closer to God, including a powerful
Eucharistic Adoration Holy Hour. The most moving moment was when Arlington Bishop
Michael F. Burbidge spoke to the youths and encouraged them to move forward. He
told them, “The young adults are part of our ecclesial family. All the Bishops
in the United States are praying for you, and we are with you. Keep moving
forward. This is the best time to give your lives to God. Stay strong and
united. I carry you in my hearts.” The youths also were able to ask Bishop
Burbidge several questions.

Many of the young people will return to
their parishes with a wonderful experience of faith, ready to participate in
the New Evangelization, and proud to belong to this Diocese of Arlington.